INTRODUCTION
The integration of Science, Technology, Engineering
and Mathematics, known as STEM education, is a
growing area in developed and developing countries [1],
[2]. There is a widespread depiction of STEM education
but there are various interpretations of what it actually
entails. STEM education, in the focus of this study, aims
to shift teaching practices from traditional lecture-based
teaching into those that are inquiry, project-based and
problem-based learning as a means to present
interdisciplinary, meaningful learning experiences that
could include two or more of the four main disciplines
identified in STEM education. Within such
interdisciplinary philosophy, deep conceptual
understanding and what is termed as 21st century skills
could be developed [3].
Yet, research findings indicate that science and math
teachers lack pedagogical knowledge and efficacy when
it comes to STEM education [4], [5]. This has put
Manuscript received March 25, 2015; revised June 5, 2015.
demands and challenges on professional development
(PD) providers to design programs that address teachers’
needs and introduces new concepts [6].